The news that Robbie Brady will be out of action for a month has likely put a dampener on the day of Hull City supporters everywhere.
The former Manchester United scholar has been in sensational form for the Tigers since making his Premier League debut on the opening day of the season. Just 21 years old, the midfielder has scored three times and provided one assist during the early stages of his first campaign playing in the top flight. He also produced the only goal of the game at Brisbane Road during his side’s win over Leyton Orient in the first round of the Capital One Cup. And, whilst Brady has found the net twice thanks to a penalty kick, it is significant to remember that such set pieces still need to be converted.
The news of his injury will also come as a blow to the Republic of Ireland setup, who will be unable to call upon Brady for their upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Germany and Kazakhstan. Missing out for his country will also have an adverse effect on the player personally, as the competition for places in the Ireland team is fierce due to the nation currently being manager-less.
Brady will hope an impressive first six games are not overlooked by his club manager either, with Steve Bruce now having to find someone to replace the midfielder during his recovery period. Whoever that player is will do well to make the same impact as the 21-year-old, who had started every Premier League so far this term.
With Aston Villa the next visitors to the KC Stadium, Hull have the chance to make it three top flight victories in a row. Will the loss of Brady, however, cause their winning run to end?